Town Square

Editorial: Gap year -- a Year of Living Adventurously

Original post made
on Jun 13, 2013

It's not always obvious when we as individuals arrive at a crossroad. Decisions that seem inconsequential at the time can lead to events and situations that can be life-changing. Some crossroads, however, are quite predictable and it is useful to consider the options when we're at one. Personal character could be at stake.

Posted by Las Lomitas District Parent
a resident of Portola Valley: Ladera
on Jun 13, 2013 at 12:15 pm

Great story and would love to learn more. Did these students get accepted to college in their senior years and then defer their start date to a year later? Or did they have to apply to college during their gap year? Can athletes do this or is it best for athletes to go straight in?

Posted by Gap Year Parent
a resident of Atherton: West Atherton
on Jun 13, 2013 at 12:33 pm

Great question that wasn't discussed in the article. The students we know who have taken a Gap Year have all followed the traditional route of applying and getting accepted to a college. They then request a deferment from the college -- something most schools are happy to allow. Our child just finished up their Gap Year and it was transforming. As parents, we could not recommend it more highly. We cannot speak to your question on athletes as this didn't pertain to our child.

Posted by Ethan Knight
a resident of another community
on Jun 14, 2013 at 11:06 am

Typically, the best approach is to apply to college, get accepted, and defer ... above all, be honest with your admissions team if you're thinking about taking a Gap Year. There's a growing list of deferral policies (along with the financial aid deferral policies) and data and benefits about Gap Years that are on the americangap website ...

The question about athletes is a tricky one, and in my experience those students are far more pressed to do a Gap Year as scholarships for athletics don't often translate. However, I love the article's quote about real education lighting a fire rather than filling a bucket. If athletics turns into a career then fantastic, but for the majority of students lighting that fire will be key to their success.